Cotton Insect Losses - 2008

Abstract

Cotton losses to arthropod pests reduced overall yields by 3.80%.These losses reflect another low estimate, reflecting a trend which began in 2000 Lygus Lygus (1.003%)attained top ranking for the first time since rankings began in 1979.They were the only pest to exceed 1% loss. The bollworm/budworm complex (0.764%) were ranked second Stink bugs were 3rd at 0.747%; thrips Thrips were 4th at 0.516%, and cotton fleahoppers were 5th at 0.231%. Total cost and loss for insects in 2008 were $ 543 million Direct management costs for arthropods were $55.53 per acre.

Explanation of Tables

This information was provided by state coordinators and was collected from surveys of county agents, extension specialists, private consultants and research entomologists. All data are averaged over a total reporting unit. For example, if a unit report represents 100 acres had an 8% loss on 25 of those acres, then in the table summary this shows up as a 2% loss ((.08 x 25)/100). This type of averaging is used for all data reported, including yields and costs of control. Because of averaging and rounding some individual state summary numbers listed as '0' are slightly larger. Costs are averaged to the nearest cent, bales and acres to the nearest whole number, other numbers are rounded to the nearest .001. Bales are calculated at 480 pounds, and a cost of $0.65 per pound of lint is used in figuring costs.

Background

In an attempt at capturing as many of the costs of insect management as possible, the Cotton Insect Losses estimates have changed in the last few years.They were begun as a simple attempt to arrive at the 'average cost of spraying insecticide' for control of cotton arthropod pests We still attempt to arrive at the most accurate estimate possible for spray activities, but have also added some of the other costs which are incurred in cotton insect pest management. These 'additional' costs increase the bottom line of expenditures for arthropod pest management - but also more accurately reflect true expenditures. We include 'at planting insecticide costs,' (an estimate of the cost of systemic insecticides applied at planting for control of Thrips and other pests of seedling cotton); 'Bt cotton costs,' (an estimate of the technology fee and the seed surcharge); 'eradication costs' (which include the maintenance fee in those states which have eradicated the weevil and other eradication projects); and 'scouting costs;' in addition to the traditional 'foliar insecticide costs.' Bales lost are also given a dollar value using 480 pound bales at $0.65 per pound. Remember, these are estimates and may not totally reflect an individual farm or area, but they do reflect trends and serve as a general comparison.